Sexuality and Intimacy

Most people with cancer say they have sexual difficulties, but providers and doctors usually hesitate to bring them up. In this publication, learn about “sexual health care,” including the role of local hormone treatments and the challenge of explaining your needs. Among the concerns explored are changed feelings in and about your breasts after surgery; pain or dryness caused by menopausal changes; and the impact of radiation and lymphedema on sexuality. Learn to ask questions of your doctor and to make the most of your intimate life—as you uniquely define it. This publication also contains a brief discussion of the use of the word “chronic” to describe metastatic breast cancer.